

On Point | Podcast
WBUR
Hosted by Meghna Chakrabarti, On Point is a unique, curiosity-driven combination of original reporting, newsmaker interviews, first-person stories, and in-depth analysis, making the world more intelligible and humane. When the world is more complicated than ever, we aim to make sense of it together. On Point is produced by WBUR.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jul 23, 2024 • 47min
Week of wonder: The Great Salt Lake is drying up. Can it be saved?
An exploration of the Great Salt Lake's decline, its environmental impact, and proposed solutions. Discussions on the lake's historical significance, water diversion issues, and urgent measures needed to prevent its disappearance. Insights on unsustainable water usage in Utah and the interconnectedness of environmental and personal health. Delving into changes in Utah water laws, conflicts over water conservation, and efforts to save the lake through legal, cultural, and agricultural practices.

Jul 22, 2024 • 47min
What Trump's acceptance speech says about Trump
After surviving an attempted assassination, Donald Trump promised he would seek unity as he accepted the GOP’s nomination. We take a look at what Trump said, and whether or not that message was embraced by delegates, Republican party leaders, and Trump's base nationwide.

Jul 20, 2024 • 41min
The Jackpod: The best of times, the worst of times
On Point news analyst Jack Beatty discusses the contrasting fortunes of Republicans and Democrats, exploring themes of victory and defeat. The podcast delves into the narrative presented at the Republican National Convention, the political legacy and strategy of a leading Republican figure, and reflections on recent events in the United States. It also examines the failure of political remedies impacting the middle class and generational frustration, highlighting the importance of addressing societal needs to prevent political extremism.

Jul 19, 2024 • 48min
How Trump's values became the Republican party platform
Exploring how Trump's influence shapes the GOP's platform for 2024, focusing on energy independence and class warfare rhetoric. Critics question alignment with traditional values and America's exceptionalism. Comparing past and present platforms, highlighting the evolution under Trump's leadership.

Jul 18, 2024 • 47min
The marvelous and misunderstood world of sharks
Marine biologist Jasmin Graham shares her journey from holding sharks to advocating for conservation efforts and more diversity in the field. She discusses misconceptions about sharks, the impact of media on their perception, and the legacy of segregation on marine conservation.

Jul 17, 2024 • 47min
'You have to listen to people': Dr. Anthony Fauci's lessons from a life in public health
Dr. Anthony Fauci shares insights from his career in public health, focusing on his work during the HIV/AIDS crisis. He discusses the emotional impact of treating AIDS patients, navigating activism in research, and advocating for public health funding. The podcast highlights the importance of listening to communities, effective communication, and collaboration in public health responses.

Jul 16, 2024 • 47min
Can America step back from violent political rhetoric?
Discussions on recent shooting incidents, reactions from politicians, and calls to reduce political violence and rhetoric. Analysis of security concerns and political impact in Pennsylvania. Surveys revealing rising support for political violence in the US, with experts discussing implications and the need to address extreme rhetoric.

Jul 15, 2024 • 47min
What the end of the Chevron deference means for regulatory power
Exploring the recent Supreme Court ruling on Chevron deference and its impact on regulatory power, discussing the consequences of overturning Chevron, analyzing the shift in regulatory authority, focusing on Superfund laws and hazardous chemicals, and exploring agency neutrality post-Chevron deference.

Jul 13, 2024 • 51min
The Jackpod: From June 6, 1944 to January 6, 2021 -- How did America get here?
On Point news analyst Jack Beatty discusses the shift from politics of remedy to politics of revenge, exploring D-Day's noble ideals contrasted with the January 6th insurrection. The podcast reflects on historical events like the New Deal era, analyzes retirement planning failures, and explores potential replacements for Joe Biden in the presidential race.

Jul 12, 2024 • 47min
Rebroadcast: Trump’s 2025 authoritarian playbook and what it means for democracy
Donald Trump has openly admired authoritarians around the world. Now he’s pledging to rule like one. An examination of the promises, powers and plans of a second Trump presidency.